Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR Review

Ready to Know the Truth About the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR?

After years of relying on my Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag for everything from flushing pheasants to winter waterfowl duties, I found myself consistently wishing for more control and tighter patterns at extended ranges. The factory chokes, while functional, felt like a compromise, especially when facing wary ducks or distant grouse. This persistent desire for optimized shot delivery led me to seek out a more specialized solution, and the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR quickly rose to the top of my list. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering. The weight felt substantial, hinting at the robust 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction that promises longevity. I considered a single, higher-end choke tube from another manufacturer, but the allure of a matched pair specifically designed for different ranges, coupled with the reputable Carlson’s name, made this two-pack a compelling choice. The immediate feeling was one of practical readiness, a quiet satisfaction that I might finally have the tools to elevate my shotgun’s performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real outing with these chokes was during a crisp November duck hunt. I fitted the Mid-Range (MR) choke tube, anticipating typical waterfowling distances on the marsh. The installation was straightforward; the tubes threaded in smoothly, seating with a satisfying snugness in my Mossberg 835 receiver. The real test came with the first volleys at flushing mallards. I immediately noticed a marked improvement in pattern density and consistency compared to the older choke. Birds that might have previously been questionable shots now folded cleanly. The accuracy felt dialed in, making those crucial follow-up shots more manageable. There were no unexpected issues or quirks; the chokes performed exactly as intended from the moment they were installed.

Extended Use & Reliability

Fast forward through several more hunting seasons and countless hours at the clay range, and these Carlson’s choke tubes have become indispensable. They’ve endured mud, rain, and the occasional tumble onto gravel without any degradation in performance. Cleaning is simple; a quick brush and some CLP are all that’s needed to keep them in prime condition. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel has shown absolutely no signs of corrosion or wear, a testament to its quality. In direct comparison to the factory chokes and even some aftermarket options I’ve experimented with over the years, this Delta Waterfowl pack stands out for its consistent performance and robust build. I’ve found myself reaching for the Long Range (LR) tube more often than I initially anticipated, especially for field hunting where opportunity shots can present themselves at surprising distances.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR

Specifications

This pack from Carlson’s Choke Tubes is designed specifically for the Mossberg 835/935 platform, ensuring a precise fit for these popular shotguns. It includes two distinct choke tubes: one for Mid Range (MR) and one for Long Range (LR) applications. Both are crafted from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, a premium material known for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and durability under demanding conditions. The MR choke has a diameter of 0.743 in, while the LR choke measures 0.727 in. These specific diameters are engineered to produce tighter, more consistent shot patterns at their respective effective ranges. The tubes are Non-Ported, which is standard for many waterfowl chokes and contributes to their simplicity and reliability. This pack conveniently includes a Choke Wrench, simplifying installation and removal for the end-user.

The material choice of 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel is crucial here. Unlike blued steel or lesser alloys, this material is highly resistant to the pressure and heat generated by firing shotgun shells, ensuring the choke tube maintains its integrity and intended constriction over time. The difference in diameter between the MR and LR tubes, though subtle, is significant in its effect on shot pattern. The smaller diameter of the LR tube restricts the shot column more, pushing its effective range further out, while the slightly more open MR tube provides a wider pattern for closer engagements. The inclusion of a Choke Wrench means you don’t need specialized tools to swap chokes between different hunting scenarios or even during a single outing if conditions change.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core function, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR excels. The Mid Range tube consistently delivers dense, even patterns at ranges up to about 40 yards, which is ideal for most duck and pheasant hunting situations. The Long Range tube extends that effective range significantly, often providing reliably tight patterns out to 50-60 yards, proving invaluable for those wary late-season geese or distant field birds. Both tubes minimize crippling shots by tightening the pattern, ensuring more pellets reach the target area.

The primary strength of these chokes is their ability to predictably constrict the shot column, leading to superior pattern performance. My experience confirms that Carlson’s has dialed in the specifications precisely for the intended applications. A minor point of consideration might be that for extremely close-range shooting (under 25 yards), even the MR tube might be considered slightly tight for some, but this is inherent to the design of dedicated waterfowl chokes aimed at extending effective range. Overall, they meet and exceed expectations for their intended purpose, offering a tangible improvement in shot delivery for the Mossberg 835/935 platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these choke tubes is functional and robust. Machined from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, they have a substantial feel without being overly heavy. The exterior features a matte black finish that blends well with most shotgun barrels and reduces glare. Installation is intuitive; they are designed to thread smoothly into the Mossberg 835/935’s barrel system.

The knurling at the muzzle end provides a decent grip for hand-tightening or removal, although the included Choke Wrench is highly recommended for proper installation and removal. There’s no unnecessary embellishment; it’s a utilitarian design focused on performance and durability. The smooth, clean lines ensure they don’t snag on brush or clothing. The absence of porting contributes to a cleaner aesthetic and simplifies maintenance.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is where these Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR truly shine. After multiple seasons of hard use in varying weather conditions, they show no signs of significant wear. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel has proven exceptionally resistant to fouling and erosion. I’ve encountered no issues with them loosening during firing or developing cracks.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a cleaning cloth and a light application of gun oil after each use is sufficient to keep them in top shape. I occasionally remove them to clean the threads within the barrel as well, which is easily accomplished with the provided Choke Wrench. I haven’t experienced any failure points, and their longevity appears to be excellent, suggesting they will outlast many shotgun barrels.

Accessories and Customization Options

This pack comes with two essential choke tubes, the MR and LR variants, specifically for the Mossberg 835/935 system. The most significant included accessory is the Choke Wrench, which is crucial for proper installation and removal. This ensures that the chokes are securely fitted and can be interchanged as needed.

While Carlson’s offers a vast array of choke tubes for different gauges and gun models, this specific pack is fixed with the MR and LR constrictions. There are no further customization options within this particular pack, but the beauty of Carlson’s system is the vast compatibility. If you were to acquire other Carlson’s choke tubes for different shotguns, you could potentially use their wrenches across systems, though always double-check compatibility. The quality of the included wrench is decent, functional and not flimsy.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR?

This choke tube pack is an excellent choice for any serious waterfowl or upland bird hunter who owns a Mossberg 835 or 935 shotgun and wants to maximize their effective range and pattern performance. If you find yourself wishing your shots were consistently tighter or that you could confidently take shots at slightly longer distances, these tubes are a worthwhile upgrade. They are particularly suited for those who hunt in open fields or marshes where opportunities at various ranges are common.

Individuals who primarily hunt in dense woods at very close ranges (under 30 yards) might find the Long Range choke to be too restrictive, and the Mid Range might be their only consistently used option. For these hunters, a different choke tube configuration might be more appropriate. For optimal performance, I recommend pairing these chokes with quality ammunition; while they will improve any load, premium shotshells will truly unlock their potential. A good bore snake or cleaning kit is also essential for maintaining the longevity and consistent performance of these 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel tubes.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Mossberg 835/935 Delta Waterfowl 2 Pack, MR & LR delivers on its promise of enhanced performance for dedicated shotgunners. The precision engineering, robust materials, and thoughtful design of the MR and LR tubes translate directly into more effective and consistent shot patterns in the field. While the initial investment might seem a bit steep compared to standard offerings, the tangible improvement in shot delivery and the sheer durability of the 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction make this pack a solid value for any Mossberg 835/935 owner looking to elevate their shooting game. I wholeheartedly recommend this set to any hunter seeking to extend their effective range and bring down more birds cleanly, especially those who prioritize reliability and long-term performance from their equipment.